In the realm of cricket dreams, Akash Deep, the 27-year-old pacer from Bengal, is on the verge of realizing a long-cherished goal – donning the Indian jersey in the ongoing South Africa tour. While a bit of misfortune denied him an India debut earlier, circumstances have now aligned in his favor as he steps in as a replacement for Deepak Chahar, who had to withdraw from the squad due to a family emergency.
Akash Deep journey to the Indian squad took an unexpected turn when he was a late entrant in India’s contingent for this year’s Asian Games in Hangzhou. Unfortunately, a visa glitch prevented him from joining the squad, a twist of fate that left the quick bowler disappointed.
However, cricket, like life, often presents second chances, and Akash Deep has seized his opportunity with both hands.
Expressing his gratitude for being part of the national team, Akash Deep emphasized that, for him, wearing the India jersey goes beyond mere symbolism. “It’s not just about donning the India jersey; it’s about doing well for India and having a role to play in the team’s success. That’s what my dream is,” he stated as per The Telegraph, showcasing a deep sense of commitment to contributing meaningfully to the team’s achievements.
Akash Deep already in South Africa
Acknowledging the significance of executing his skills effectively if given a chance, Akash Deep, who was already with the India ‘A’ squad in South Africa, remains focused on making a positive impact. His aspirations align with the broader goal of ensuring success for the Indian team.
The Bengal pacer is not alone in navigating the challenges of South African conditions. His teammate and new-ball partner, Mukesh Kumar, also features in the ODI squad and brings valuable experience from the T20I leg. Akash Deep is poised to tap into Mukesh Kumar’s insights to adapt swiftly to the conditions and contribute effectively to the team’s performance.
Bengal chief coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla is optimistic about Akash Deep’s potential debut, citing his impressive form in the current Vijay Hazare Trophy with 10 wickets from six games.
With determination and skill on his side, Akash Deep eagerly awaits the moment when he can make his mark in the ODI format, turning his dream into a tangible reality. As the South Africa tour unfolds, all eyes will be on this aspiring pacer, eager to contribute to India’s cricketing success on the international stage.
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